Architecture as Expression: Krupa Zubin’s Journey in Contemporary Design

1. Introduction

Ar. Krupa Zubin is the founding partner of the award-winning Mumbai-based firm, ZZ Architects, a practice recognized for creating a global reputation for high-quality architectural and interior design projects. While her work seamlessly blends craft with contemporary luxury, she has managed to remain focused on the design process, often staying out of the mainstream limelight. She, alongside her partner, Ar. Zubin Zainuddin, aims for the firm to be part of changing the perception of India as a creative and global hub for quality projects and design.

II. Early Life and Education

Ar. Krupa Zubin was enamored by the creative world of design from an early age, which led her to decide on pursuing Architecture. She completed her architectural studies at Pillai College of Architecture, Mumbai (Batch 1994-99). Following her graduation, she worked as an intern with Sanjay Puri Architects, where she was exposed to a variety of large-scale projects. 

III. The Genesis of ZZ Architects 

Following her internship, Ar. Krupa Zubin, together with Ar. Zubin Zainuddin, decided to join hands and start their own venture, leading to the birth of ZZ Architects in 2002. The firm began as a two-member entity but has since grown into a large design practice involving a substantial team of architects and designers. The architects framed the quote ‘Every Detail Counts’ for their office since the beginning, which remains close to the firm’s principal approach.

IV. Design Philosophy and Approach

Krupa Zubin’s personal preference in design is to create something that is fresh and contemporary with a global, timeless appeal. The firm’s work is described as very personal and process-driven, with a constant need to ensure that all projects maintain individual identities. 

Key aspects of her design philosophy include: 

• Attention to Detail: She believes that attention to detail and the purpose of particulars truly make a home. 

• Inspiration and Evolution: She strongly believes in personalizing and evolving their style, seeking inspiration from diverse art and ideas, including Art, Food, Fashion, Graphic, Cinema, Product Design, Literature, and Travel. 

• Material Language: There is a particular emphasis on material language and the final fit and finish of a project. They constantly research new materials and play with the interesting dynamics of interpolating them with traditional stone and timber. 

• The Invisible Nuances: The firm operates on the belief that “It’s often the invisible nuances that make the visible difference.”

V. Architectural Portfolio and Impact

While the firm is recognized for its work in boutique residential and interior architecture, a majority of ZZ Architects’ portfolio involves high-end bungalows and villas. However, the firm is multidisciplinary and multi-award winning, with an extensive array of work across varying categories such as Master planning, Residential high-rises, educational institutions, healthcare, hospitality, corporate interiors, office buildings, and clubhouses. 

ZZ Architects is committed to working with qualified and selective suppliers and contractors, which helps ensure the best quality, fit, and finish for all projects. The firm has also received recognition, including the ‘Best Architect’ award at the Good Homes Awards and nominations in the ‘International Design and Architecture Awards.’

VI. The Nuance of Personalization

For Krupa Zubin, enhancing the experience of living and adding a personal touch is what truly defines a home. She states, “Our homes have become the main settings of our lives: where we need to unwind and energize ourselves at the same time.” This drives a desire to create a space that reflects the client’s inherent self, based on both aspiration and comfort. She views the relationship with a client as one where “everybody has to be committed and then you can do the best.”